You don't have to be Irish to enjoy the bevy of green culture that's a comin' this weekend. Downtown Charleston is the place to be to kick off the St. Patrick's Day Parade.
Jimmy Finnegan (referred to in the 2013 St. Patrick's Day Parade program as "Charleston's Irishman of the People") has been parade director for 16 years—from back when it was just a few men marching to what it is today. Finnegan is also a past president and founder of the John L. Manning Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians (AOH), a member of the South Carolina Irish Historical Society, and a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 704. The parade is sponsored by these three groups, as well as the Ladies AOH. Of the parade's growth over the years Finnegan says: "The parade's success has certainly bolstered the Irish community here in Charleston, which has a deep, rich history."
St. Patrick's Day Schedule of Events
March 16, 2013
8:00 a.m.—Mass at St. Patrick's Catholic Church
St Patrick's Day Parade
9:00 a.m.—Stage on Radcliffe Street
10:00 a.m.—Step off down King to Broad Street
11:30 a.m.—Raising of the Irish flag over City Hall
Noon—Light Irish American lunch at Knights of Columbus Hall
Thanks to Jimmy and Rosalyn Finnegan for the event schedule and photos.
